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Gelsenkirchen Bank Heist Probed for Insider Access as Loss Estimates Climb

Police have searched the bank’s offices under court order to secure data in a widening probe.

Overview

  • Investigators are examining suspected insider assistance after the final internal door showed no forced-entry marks and the perpetrators appeared to use access credentials and specialized knowledge.
  • Procedural questions center on two fire alarms during the break-in, an initial response that may not have fully checked key areas, and a security system that did not trigger during prolonged drilling.
  • Nearly all of the approximately 3,250 safety-deposit boxes were opened after intruders reached the vault by drilling through a steel‑concrete wall from a neighboring garage or archive area.
  • Police describe the damage as a mid double‑digit million euro amount, while some media and customer claims suggest totals could exceed €100 million, with all figures still provisional.
  • Authorities warn of phone scams targeting affected customers, and consumer groups urge documenting contents and reviewing or increasing insurance rather than emptying boxes, noting typical coverage caps near €10,000 per box and far lower limits for cash.